%2Ffit-in%2F250x250%2Fguide_websites%2F12471%2Fimages%2F1704340069555addictivesportfishing.png&w=1200&q=100)
Top-Rated SF Bluefin Tuna Fishing Charter
- Published Date: July 17, 2025
- Fishing
- San Francisco
- $300 - $3,000 price range
- Updated Date: September 8, 2025
Summary
%2F%2Fusers%2F8be78c19-87c7-4bc4-91e2-531c782545e2%2Fratecard%2Frc8.jpg&w=1200&q=75)
Bluefin Battles
River runs and salmon strikes make every cast count.
Hooked into silver muscle—salmon season is here.
Salmon fishing: where patience meets power.
Chasing chrome on the river never gets old.
Lingcod: fierce strikes and stronger fights.
Big flatfish, big fight—halibut time.
Nothing beats the thrill of hauling up a halibut.
Chasing halibut and stripers for the perfect day on the water.
Nothing beats the power of a tuna on the line.
Hooked on halibut, and it’s worth the wait.
River runs and salmon strikes make every cast count.
Hooked into silver muscle—salmon season is here.
Salmon fishing: where patience meets power.
Chasing chrome on the river never gets old.
Lingcod: fierce strikes and stronger fights.
Big flatfish, big fight—halibut time.
Nothing beats the thrill of hauling up a halibut.
Chasing halibut and stripers for the perfect day on the water.
Nothing beats the power of a tuna on the line.
Hooked on halibut, and it’s worth the wait.
River runs and salmon strikes make every cast count.
Hooked into silver muscle—salmon season is here.
Salmon fishing: where patience meets power.
Chasing chrome on the river never gets old.
SF's Ultimate Bluefin Tuna Adventure
Get ready for a serious day of offshore action, chasing some of the most sought-after fish in the Pacific. Our Extended Full Day Bluefin Tuna trip takes you beyond the Golden Gate Bridge and into the heart of prime tuna territory. This isn't your average bay fishing - we're talking about battling 100+ pound monsters that'll test your arms and your gear. If you've been dreaming of hooking into a true giant, this is your chance. We've got the know-how, the boat, and the spots - all you need to bring is your A-game and a good night's sleep beforehand.
What's the Deal with This Trip?
Listen up, because this isn't your typical day on the water. We're talking about a full 10 hours dedicated to putting you on some of the biggest, baddest fish swimming off the California coast. We'll be running offshore, well beyond the typical fishing grounds. That means a longer ride out, but trust me, it's worth every minute when you're hooked up to a bluefin that's trying to spool you. The boat's limited to 6 anglers, so you'll have plenty of elbow room when the action heats up. Fair warning though - the weather can get sporty out there, and we might have to work for our fish. But that's all part of the bluefin game, and it makes landing one even sweeter.
We'll be using heavy-duty gear suited for these bruisers. Expect to be working with 50-80 lb class setups, because anything less just won't cut it when a 200-pounder decides it wants to go deep. Don't worry if you're not used to this kind of tackle - we'll show you the ropes. Just be ready for a workout. Oh, and a heads up - we don't provide meals on this trip, so pack a good lunch and plenty of water. You'll need the fuel when you're cranking on these tuna.
How We Hunt These Giants
Alright, let's talk strategy. Bluefin fishing isn't just about dropping lines and hoping for the best. We'll be using a mix of techniques, depending on what the fish are doing. Some days, it's all about the troll - we'll be pulling spreads of lures that mimic the baitfish these tuna are chasing. Other times, we might find ourselves in the middle of a foaming frenzy, casting poppers or stick baits into boiling water. And when the tuna are being stubborn? That's when we might break out the kites or deep-drop some knife jigs.
We've got top-of-the-line electronics to help us locate the schools, but a lot of this comes down to good old-fashioned experience. We're constantly watching for bird activity, temperature breaks, and those telltale signs of tuna busting on the surface. When we find them, it's game on. You'll need to be ready to move fast, because these fish don't wait around. One minute it's calm, the next you're in a full-on tuna rodeo with rods bent and drags screaming.
Why Anglers Can't Get Enough
I'll tell you straight - once you've tangled with a big bluefin, regular fishing just doesn't hit the same. These aren't your backyard bass or even your typical salmon. We're talking about fish that can easily top 100 pounds, with some real monsters pushing 300 or more. When one of these torpedoes takes off, you'll swear you've hooked a submarine. It's a full-body workout that can leave you sore for days, but man, is it worth it.
The fight is only part of the story. There's something special about being way offshore, surrounded by nothing but blue water and sky. You might see whales, dolphins, or even sunfish out there. And when you finally bring that tuna to the boat after an epic battle? That's a moment you'll be reliving for years. Plus, if you like sushi or grilled tuna steaks, it doesn't get any fresher than this.
The Stars of the Show: Bluefin
Let's talk about what makes Pacific Bluefin Tuna so special. These aren't just big fish - they're marvels of nature. Built like torpedoes and colored a deep, metallic blue on top with silver sides, they're absolutely beautiful. But it's what's under the hood that really sets them apart. Bluefin are warm-blooded, which means they can regulate their body temperature. This allows them to dive deep into cold water and then rocket back to the surface in pursuit of prey.
These fish are built for speed and endurance. They can swim at over 40 mph in short bursts and are constantly on the move, migrating thousands of miles across the Pacific. When they show up off San Francisco, it's usually the bigger models - fish in the 100-300 pound range aren't uncommon. The best time to target them is typically late summer into fall, but they can surprise you any time from June to November.
What makes catching them so addictive? It's the raw power. When a big bluefin takes off, it's not just about the initial run. These fish can fight for hours, making repeated deep dives that'll have you questioning if you've got what it takes to bring them in. And just when you think you've got them beat, they'll see the boat and take off again. It's a true test of an angler's skill and determination.
Time to Lock In Your Spot
Look, if you're still reading this, you know you want to give it a shot. This isn't just another fishing trip - it's a chance to test yourself against one of the ocean's top predators. We've got the boat, the gear, and the know-how to put you on fish. All you need to do is show up ready to work hard and maybe, just maybe, land the fish of a lifetime.
Remember, we're limited to just 6 anglers per trip, and these spots fill up fast. Serious tuna guys book well in advance, especially when the bite is on. Don't be the one left at the dock watching us head out to the tuna grounds. Give us a call or hit that 'Book Now' button. Just be warned - once you've felt that first bluefin run, regular fishing might never be the same again. See you on the water!
Learn more about the animal
Bluefin Tuna
Bluefin Tuna (Thunnus Thhynnus) Description
The Atlantic Bluefin Tuna is one of the largest, fastest, and most fantastically colored fishes. They are shiny blue on the top, shimmery silver/white on the bottom, and reddish rear fins. They can be easily distinguished from other tuna species because of their smaller pectoral fins. They have a pineal window on its head that helps them navigate a wide range of areas. This large fish has a streamlined, torpedo-shaped body that is built for speed and endurance.
Size
Atlantic Bluefin Tuna is the largest of its tuna family. Their average size is 6.5 feet in length and 550 pounds, although they can reach twice that size in both weight and length, a whopping 12 feet and 1400 pounds. The Pacific Bluefin Tuna is smaller, with its average size of 5 feet and 130 pounds.
Interesting Facts
Bluefin Tuna meat is regarded as the most delicious, particularly among sashimi eaters. Their demand and prices have soared over the last 30 years worldwide, especially in Japan. Commercial operations have found new ways to catch them causing overfishing causing the Bluefin Tuna population to plummet. There are international conservation efforts to save them, but illegal fishing in Europe is endangering this species.
The Bluefin Tuna hunts fish such as mackerel and herring. They also enjoy invertebrates like crustaceans and squid along with kelp and zooplankton. Their average speed is 43 mph, and they can dive as deep as 3,300 ft. Sharks and whales are occasional predators of young Bluefin Tuna.
Spawning
Atlantic Bluefin spawn in the Gulf of Mexico and spawning starts in April and ends in June. Up to ten million eggs are laid, and eggs hatch within 48 hours. They have broadcast spawning habits, which means a few males and females at the same time in the same water release sperms and eggs. This ensures maximum fertilization of eggs.
Habitat and Distribution
Bluefin Tuna is native to both the eastern Atlantic and the western Atlantic Ocean. These large fish are a highly migratory species found from New Foundland to the Gulf of Mexico. They are also native to the Mediterranean Sea and were populated in the Black Sea until they were fished to extinction. As they are a rare warm-blooded fish, they comfortably live in cold and tropical water.
Baits and Lures
If trolling for Bluefin, we suggest using small fish natural bait of herring as your first choice. Squid, mackerel, mullet, or whiting can also be used. If using a line, chumming will attract the tuna and use lures of cedar plugs, spoons, feathers, and poppers. Also helpful to use colors of blue or bone, black or silver.
Fishing Techniques - How to Catch Bluefin Tuna
These are strong fish and tough fighters. Be prepared for fast surface runs and deep dives. You will need the heaviest of tackles and a sturdy fishing belt. Some of the most effective techniques include using live bait, trolling with lures, and jigging. Live bait such as squid or mackerel will entice the bluefin tuna to bite, while trolling with lures can mimic the movement of their natural prey. Jigging involves dropping a lure to the bottom of the ocean and quickly reeling it back up, which can trigger the predatory instincts of bluefin tuna. Trolling is the way to find the school Bluefins as it lets you search and cover large areas. Use of outriggers and your tackle should consist of snap swivels so that anglers can swap the rigs easily. Note, they usually bite more aggressively during the evening and morning hours. Locate them near offshore islands, reefs, or deep-feeding areas.
Jigging and chunking are two of the most effective and widely-used techniques for catching bluefin tuna. With the ability to target specific depths and locations in the water column, anglers can increase their chances of success in catching these prized fish. However, it is important to note that these techniques require a certain level of skill and experience to execute properly. Furthermore, it is crucial to practice responsible fishing practices to ensure the sustainability of the bluefin tuna population. When implemented responsibly, these techniques can result in thrilling and rewarding experiences for anglers looking to catch the fish of a lifetime.
Is Bluefin Tuna Good to Eat?
Bluefin tuna has a succulent, fatty flavor that is best enjoyed in its purest form when served raw or lightly seared. This exquisite fish has a naturally delicious Umami taste that can be compromised with marinades or sauces. Bluefin sushi is the perfect way to savor the rich and buttery flavor of this fish. When crafting bluefin sushi, only the highest quality cuts are selected and carefully prepared to enhance their natural taste. Whether enjoyed as sashimi or in a maki roll, bluefin tuna is a delicacy that should be savored in all its unadulterated glory. Its melt-in-your-mouth texture and sweet, delicate flavor make it a favorite of sushi lovers worldwide. So next time you order bluefin tuna, consider opting for it raw or lightly seared to fully appreciate its natural taste.
Bluefin tuna is a type of fish that is considered a delicacy in many parts of the world for its rich and flavorful taste. However, the global population of Bluefin tuna has declined drastically in the past few decades due to overfishing and other environmental factors. This has made it difficult to sustainably harvest this fish, and has also led to concerns about the impact of Bluefin tuna consumption on the environment. Achieving sustainable bluefin tuna conservation means implementing strategies to ensure that bluefin tuna populations will continue to thrive and supply communities with a healthy and delicious source of food. This involves carefully monitoring fishing efforts and adopting fishing methods that minimize harm to the environment and other marine species. There is also a need for strict regulations and policies to prevent overexploitation of bluefin tuna populations. Despite these concerns, many people still enjoy eating Bluefin tuna for its delicious taste, and continue to seek out this fish as a special treat. While it is important to be mindful of the impact of our food choices on the environment, there is no denying that Bluefin tuna is a tasty and sought-after food that many people enjoy.
Regulations
The species is federally managed and requires obtaining a permit and reporting your catch NOAA Fisheries has put in place regulatory measures put in place to manage bluefin tuna bycatch in the pelagic longline fishery for Atlantic highly migratory species.
About the Grady White (Sportfishing)
%2F%2Fusers%2F8be78c19-87c7-4bc4-91e2-531c782545e2%2Fvehicle_picture%2Fboat.jpg&w=1200&q=75)
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 35
Number of Engines: 2
Horsepower per Engine: 225
